Quitting for You. Quitting for 2: Increase your Chances of Quitting

Sunday, November 25, 2012

We know that women can have very different feelings about smoking and pregnancy. Maybe you’re thinking about getting pregnant and trying to figure out how smoking fits into this decision. Maybe you’re excited (or scared) to be pregnant and feel pressured to quit because you’re pregnant. Or maybe you’re a new mom who’s having trouble staying smokefree. Whatever your situation and whatever you’re feeling, we’re here to support you!

Studies show that women are more likely to quit smoking while they’re pregnant when they:

Understand the harmful effects of smokingDid you know women who smoke have a harder time getting pregnant? And that they and their baby face more dangers if they do get pregnant? Smoking has been linked to a higher chance of having a baby born too early (making it more likely that the baby will be sick and have to stay in the hospital longer) or a baby born with certain birth defects. A few babies may even die. The good news is that quitting before you get pregnant will eliminate these risks. But for women who are already pregnant, quitting as early as possible can still help protect against some health problems, such as low birth weight, and increase your chances of having a healthy baby.

Have a partner who doesn’t smokeSeeing someone else smoke or seeing cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays around the house can trigger a craving and a slip. Having a partner who doesn’t smoke will help remove this temptation and help you stay smokefree.

Have support from family or other important people in their livesResearch shows that people who have close friends and family they can count on are happier and healthier. While some people are able to quit on their own, many need help and support to quit. Quitting smoking is hard. It’s OK to ask for help. A lot of people do! So, call on your family and friends during the good times and the bad.

It’s ok if you don’t have all of these things. Many women don’t have all three and still quit smoking. You can too! Smokefree Women has plenty of information, tools, and support to help you quit smoking.